Want to bite into the sweetest, juiciest watermelon you’ve ever tasted? Choosing the perfect one may seem tricky, but these simple tips will help you pick a winner every time.

1. Look for the Field Spot

The field spot, or ground spot, is the creamy yellow patch on a watermelon where it rested on the ground. A ripe watermelon will have a large, deeply yellow or orange-ish field spot. If it’s white or barely visible, the fruit likely isn’t fully ripe.

2. Knock and Listen

Give the watermelon a gentle tap with your knuckles. A ripe watermelon will make a deep, hollow sound when tapped, while an unripe one will sound dull or flat. Think of it as listening for the sweet, juicy promise inside.

3. Check the Weight

Pick up a few watermelons of similar size and compare their weight. A ripe watermelon will feel heavy for its size, meaning it’s packed with water and perfectly juicy.

4. Inspect the Rind

A mature watermelon will have a dull, matte finish on its rind, rather than a shiny, glossy one, which can indicate it’s underripe. The skin should also be firm and resistant to pressure when you press your thumb against it.

5. Look for Sugar Spots and Webbing

Brown web-like spots or sugar spots on the surface are a good sign! They indicate where the sugar has seeped out of the fruit, meaning it’s probably very sweet.

6. Consider the Shape

Watermelons generally come in round or oval shapes. While both are tasty, round watermelons tend to be sweeter, and oval ones are often crisper. Choose based on your preference.

7. Check the Stem

If the watermelon still has a visible stem, it can give clues about the fruit’s ripeness. A dried or browned stem often means it’s ripe, while a green stem might indicate it was harvested too early.

By following these tips, you’ll walk out of the store with a watermelon that’s perfectly ripe, sweet, and ready to enjoy. All you need now is a sunny day and a sharp knife to cut into that deliciousness! Happy picking!